NL2037918B1

NL2037918B1 - Device for connecting a bracing wire in a greenhouse or warehouse and a greenhouse or warehouse comprising such a device

Info

Publication number: NL2037918B1
Application number: NL2037918A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Prins Vincent
Original assignee: Van Der Valk Systemen B V
Priority date: 2024-06-10
Filing date: 2024-06-10
Publication date: 2026-01-08

Abstract

_ 17 _ A fastening device is provided for fastening a bracing wire to a vertical support element in a greenhouse or warehouse. The device comprises a clamp element conﬁgured to be arranged and fastened around the circumference ofthe vertical support element. The clamp element further has at least an eye extending from the clamp element for connecting the bracing wire thereto and thereby facilitate an easy fastening ofthe bracing wire to the vertical support element. The invention further relates to a greenhouse and bracing arrangement using such a fastening device and to a method of forming the fastening device. [FIG. 2A]

Description

Device for connecting a bracing wire in a greenhouse or warehouse and a greenhouse or warehouse comprising such a device.

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for connecting a bracing wire to a vertical support element in a greenhouse or warehouse, to a method for making such a device, and to a bracing arrangement and greenhouse or warehouse comprising such a device.

Background Art

[0002] The application of screen assemblies in greenhouses or warehouses is generally known.

Screen assemblies can fulfil various different functions, for example controlling the amount and incidence of light, prevent light emissions, or controlling the climate in the greenhouse by isolating the cultivation space against heat loss or the entry of heat. The screen cloths in the screen assembly may be brought from a folded condition, i.e., an open position, to an unfolded condition, i.e., a closed position, to optimally control the conditions in the greenhouse.

[0003] An example of a greenhouse comprising a screen assembly is disclosed in patent document NL1029362C2. The screen assembly comprises a screen cloth connected to an elongate screen profile that extends perpendicular to the direction of folding and/or unfolding the screen cloth. A drive assembly is typically arranged below the screen profile to move the screen profile back and forth and thereby fold and unfold the screen cloth.

[0004] The various components of the screen assembly and drive assembly are attached to a plurality of lattice girders in a support structure in the greenhouse or warehouse. The support structure generally comprises a plurality of vertically extending support elements, e.g., columns, that support horizontal beams arranged at an elevation. The lattice girders span an opening between adjacent horizontal support beams in the support structure.

[0005] When the drive assembly is activated to open or close a screen cloth, a drive cable or other type of drive means is brought into motion having the screen profile with the screen cloth coupled thereto. The drive assembly is typically supported by the lattice girders which are unable to absorb forces in all directions. At least some of the components of the drive assembly are therefore also connected to the vertical support elements using bracing wires. The bracing wires extend from the respective components at a nonzero angle with respect to a longitudinal direction of the lattice girders. Applying the bracing wires in a correct pattern ensures that all forces that occur during operation of the screen assembly can be transferred to the vertical support elements.

[0008] According to the state of the art, a bracing wire is connected to a vertical support element by wrapping it around a vertical support element at least once and tying it to itself. Typically, a tensioning device is used to pre-stress the bracing wires and thereby enable an effective transfer of forces from the component of the drive assembly through the bracing wire and towards the vertical support element.

[0007] Although this method for applying a bracing wire has been used for many years, further improvements can be made in terms of installation speed and reliability. Disadvantageously, a bracing wire may occasionally slide downwards along the vertical support element. To prevent this, the bracing wire may be wrapped around an element or obstacle extending from a circumferential surface ofthe vertical support element, for instance at the connection of the vertical support element to the lattice girder. Unfortunately, however, having pre-determined positions where the bracing wire needs to be connected reduces the flexibility in optimally designing the bracing arrangement.

Specifically in old greenhouses with a relatively weak support structure and wherein more than one screen cloth is applied in a screen assembly, this could lead to situations wherein some vertical support elements are irresponsibly heavily loaded, which could also cause the bracing wire to damage the vertical support element. In addition, tying the bracing wire around the vertical support element is relatively time consuming and requires fine motoric skills of the person installing the screen device. Finally, changes of environmental conditions may also cause movement in the greenhouse structure, affecting the tensioning of the bracing wires. This can require re-connection or adjustment of the bracing wires, which is also cumbersome and time consuming. It can also cause abrasion or cutting due to a sawing action between the bracing wires and the support elements.

[0008] It is an object of the invention to provide a different type of bracing arrangement that addresses one or more of the disadvantages of the state of the art as mentioned above.

Summary of Invention

[0009] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening device for fastening a bracing wire to a vertical support element in a greenhouse or warehouse. The device comprises a clamp element configured to be arranged around the circumference of the vertical support element, the clamp element comprising a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion configured to be arranged around opposite sides of the vertical support element, wherein the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion comprise complementary fastening features for fastening the first clamp portion to the second clamp portion around the circumference of the vertical support element, the device further comprising an eye extending from the clamp element for connecting the bracing wire thereto.

[0010] Advantageously, the bracing wire can be connected to the eye of the fastening device instead of needing to be wrapped around the vertical support element. Connecting the bracing wire to the eye is easier and requires less skill of the person installing the bracing wire. In addition, a connection to the fastening device increases the flexibility of the position where the bracing wire is engaged to the vertical support element as typically the fastening device may be fastened to the vertical support element at many different positions, e.g., over almost the full length of the vertical support element. Moreover, the fastening device may be fastened around the vertical support element prior to connecting the bracing wire, thereby allowing for a sequential installation wherein first all fastening devices are pre-installed and thereafter all bracing wires are connected. This may speed up the installation process of a screen assembly. In the present context, the term “eye” is not intended to be restrictive in any way on the shape or form of the eye and is merely intended to denote a position at which a connection can be made between a wire and the clamping element. It may thus be a closed eye or an open eye. The eye may be formed by a ring extending away from the clamping element, allowing the bracing wired to pass through. Alternatively, the eye may be defined by a channel running along the clamp element, allowing for wire insertion from a side of the fastening device. The skilled person will recognize that various configurations of the eye are possible, including both integrally formed eyes and those incorporating additional elements such as sleeves or inserts to reinforce or shape the eye. The term “bracing wire” is provided as an example of what is commonly used for connecting some components of the drive assembly to the vertical support elements. In addition, the skilled person will understand that any relatively thin and flexible element suitable for connection with the eye may be used with the fastening device. For example, a cable, rod, rope, strip or line that comprises any metal or non-metal (e.g., comprising nylon and/or polyester, etc.) material and that is able to withstand the forces that may occur during operation of the screen assembly, may be used.

[0011] In addition, because the clamp element comprises at least two clamp portions that are configured to be arranged around opposite sides of the vertical support element, the shape of the clamp portions may be designed to precisely fit around the vertical support element. For example, the vertical support elements may have a substantially rectangular cross sectional shape with or without rounded corners, a circular or oval cross sectional shape, or an alternative shape such as an H-profile or I-profile. It will also be understood that although the clamp element is primarily intended for attachment to vertical support elements, it may also be applied to other support elements, in particular to horizontal support elements.

[0012] In an embodiment, the vertical support element has a substantially rectangular cross sectional shape, the clamp element being configured to be fastened around a substantially rectangular circumference of the vertical support element. Here the term “rectangular cross sectional shape” refers to the shape of the outer circumference of the cross section. Typically, in modern greenhouses and warehouses the vertical support elements are hollow rectangular steel profiles. Nevertheless, in an alternative embodiment the vertical support element may also be solid, e.g., if a wooden vertical support element would be used or may have a square shape. The skilled person will understand that in general, only the shape of the outer circumference is relevant as the clamp portions are fastened around the vertical support element. However, the clamp element may also be used for vertical support elements with other circumferential shapes apart from rectangular.

Furthermore, the term circumferential is not intended to suggest a round or rounded shape and may be interchangeably used with the term ‘peripheral’.

[9013] In a preferred embodiment, the clamp element abuts the circumference of the vertical support element over substantially its entire circumference. In this context abutting is intended to mean that the surfaces of the clamp element are closely in contact with the surfaces of the vertical support member. This may be as a result of deformation into contacting engagement or by virtue of careful sizing of the clamp element. Advantageously, the forces that occur during the opening and closure of a screen profile are better transferred to the vertical support element when the clamp element abuts across substantially the entire circumference of the vertical support element. In embodiments, the clamp element abuts the vertical support element over a portion of at least 90% or at least 95% of the length of the circumference. Furthermore, the clamp element abutting over substantially the entire circumference facilitates the placement of one or more eyes around the clamp element to connect one or more bracing wires in different directions. Alternatively, the clamp element may partially abut the substantially rectangular circumference of the vertical support element.

[0014] In an embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of eyes for fastening a plurality of bracing wires thereto. Advantageously, a plurality of bracing wires may thus be fastened to a vertical support element using the same fastening device. This reduces the total number of fastening devices that is required, thereby reducing both costs and required installation time. Moreover, by fastening bracing wires from different direction and/or angles, forces may partially cancel each other, thereby reducing or balancing the overall net force that is transferred to the vertical support element.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the plurality of eyes are arranged symmetrically with respect to the vertical support element. Here the term “symmetrically” refers both to mirror symmetry in a cross sectional plane of the vertical support element, as well as to a rotation symmetry around a vertical central axis of the vertical support element. Advantageously, the transfer of forces through the bracing wires to the fastening device and thereafter vertical support element is also carried out symmetrically, possibly allowing some of the forces that occur to cancel each other. In addition, due to the symmetry the installation procedure may be accelerated as it is not relevant in what orientation the fastening device is fastened to the vertical support element.

[0016] In an embodiment, the one eye or the plurality of eyes has/have an opening with a substantially circular shape with a diameter between 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm or an oval shape with a diameter between 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm along the short axis of the opening. By providing a diameter having such dimensions, most conventionally used bracing wires can be fastened to the vertical support element through the fastening device. Typically, single strand bracing wires of galvanized steel with a diameter of approximately 2 mm or multi-strand cables of 3 mm are used. It will be understood that the stiffness of the bracing wire increases with its diameter. The selection of the bracing wire diameter depends on the forces that are expected during operation of the screen assembly and therefore other diameters of wires and/or wires comprising different materials may also be used.

[9017] In an embodiment, the fastening features are configured for fastening the first clamp portion to the second clamp portion at a plurality of different positions with respect to each other.

Advantageously, a single fastening device may be used for vertical support elements having different circumferential sizes. This allows for production in larger numbers, thereby reducing the cost per fastening device. In addition, it simplifies the logistics of distributing the fastening devices as only a few types need to be available.

[0018] In an embodiment, the clamp element is configured to enclose a substantially rectangular circumference of a rectangular vertical support element having a fixed width and height, wherein the clamp element is variable of over a height range of at least 40 mm, preferably at least 60 mm.

Here the width and height are used to indicate the dimensions of the vertical support element profile in the cross sectional plane, whereas the length of the vertical support element is measured along its vertical axis. Vertical support elements typically have profiles with a small number of standard widths varying between 50 mm and 80 mm but often have greater variability in height, varying between 80 mm and 210 mm. As such, in an embodiment, the clamp element is configured to enclose the circumference of a vertical support element having a specific width of for instance 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, or 80 mm, whereas the clamp element is applicable on vertical support elements having a varying cross-sectional height.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the height is variable over a range of at least 60 mm, more preferably at least 65 mm or at least 70 mm. The height of conventional vertical support elements is typically between 80 mm and 210 mm. By providing a height adjustability over a range of at least 60 mm, the full range of conventional heights may be covered by e.g. only two different types of fastening devices. Advantageously, a smaller number of differently sized fastening devices needs to be manufactured, which allows for production and distribution in larger numbers.

[0020] In an embodiment, the complementary fastening features for fastening the first clamp portion to the second clamp portion are integrally formed with the respective portions.

Advantageously, the fastening device may consist of only the first clamp portion and second clamp portion, thereby reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and/or assembled.

[0021] In an embodiment, the eye or each of the plurality of eyes is integrally formed with the first clamp portion and/or the second clamp portion. In this manner too, the number of components that need to be manufactured, distributed, and/or assembled can be reduced.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the complementary fastening features for fastening the first clamp portion to the second clamp portion comprise a pawl and slot mechanism. Advantageously, this allows for an easy assembly and an easy way of providing a fastening device wherein the first clamp portion can be clamped to the second clamp portion at a plurality of different positions with respect to each other. The provision of a resilient protrusion may compensate for the difference between these different positions. In this context, pawl is intended to refer to a biased lever that can fall into an appropriately shaped slot when moved in one direction and not exit the slot when moved in the opposite direction. It may thus act in the manner of a ratchet during clamping. Moreover, the first and second clamp portion can be fastened to each other without the use of additional tools.

Alternative fastening features providing a similar function may be used such as a snap-fit mechanism, interlocking tabs, or any other pressure-fit or friction fit connector. Most preferably, the pawl is integrally formed with either the first or second clamp portion or both.

[0023] In an embodiment, the device further comprises a disengagement feature for disengaging the first clamp portion from the second clamp portion. The presence of a disengagement feature allows the quick and easy separation of the clamp portions with respect to each other, and thereby the quick and easy removal of the fastening device from the vertical support element. This is for example useful if a fastening device is accidentally arranged in the wrong position and/or when removing the screen assembly.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion are each formed from a single sheet of metal. Advantageously, the fastening device is cheap and easy to manufacture. It is nevertheless contemplated that the clamp portions could be made by other materials and/or procedures such as injection moulded plastics or composites.

[0025] In an embodiment, the fastening device is made of stainless steel. Stainless steel has the required strength for transmitting the forces and is less susceptible to oxidation either on engagement with the wire or the vertical member. Nevertheless, it will be understood that other materials, in particular other metals, may also suffice.

[0026] In an embodiment, the first clamp portion is substantially identical to the second clamp portion. Advantageously, only a single production line is needed to manufacture both clamp portions. In addition, using the same components multiple times in a single fastening device makes the assembly quicker as it is not possible to accidentally pick up a wrong part. Nevertheless, in embodiments, the clamp portions may also be different. For example, a first clamp portion may have the same shape and size across different embodiments, whereas the shape and/or size of the second clamp portion is different across different embodiments to allow for the fastening of the fastening device around differently sized vertical support elements.

[0027] In an embodiment, the device further comprises a resilient protrusion on a surface of the first clamp portion and/or second clamp portion, wherein the resilient protrusion is configured to contact an outer circumferential surface ofthe vertical support element. The resilient protrusion may extend inwards to provide additional friction on the outer circumferential surface of the vertical support element and thereby prevents the fastening device from accidentally sliding down along the vertical support element. Preferably, the resilient protrusion is biased in the clamping direction of the first and second clamp portions to assist in the clamping action and compensate for size variations in the clamping direction. Alternatively or in addition, the clamping action of the clamp element around the vertical support embodiment may prevent the sliding of the fastening device.

[0028] According to a second aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the advantages of the invention as described herein above, there is provided a bracing arrangement for a screen device in a greenhouse or warehouse comprising a plurality of bracing wires and/or cables and a plurality of fastening devices as described above or hereinafter. In the present context, the terms

“bracing wires and/or cables” are not intended to be restrictive with regard to structure or material.

Rather, these terms denote any single-strand or multi-strand thin and flexible element suitable for connection with the eye, including rods, ropes, strips or lines, comprising metal or non-metal (e.qg., comprising nylon and/or polyester, etc.) materials, or combinations thereof.

[0029] In an embodiment, the bracing arrangement is used to brace reversing wheels of a drive cable in the drive assembly of a screen assembly. Alternatively, or in addition, in an embodiment, the bracing arrangement is used to brace a drive shaft for driving the drive cable. Nevertheless, it will be understood that in other embodiments other components may be braced using a fastening device according to the invention.

[0030] In an embodiment, the bracing arrangement further comprises a plurality of tensioning devices. The bracing wires may be fastened to the vertical support elements using the eyes on the fastening devices and thereafter brought to the correct tension using a tensioning device. This ensures that all forces may be properly transferred through the bracing wires.

[0031] In an embodiment, the bracing arrangement further comprises a plurality of carabiner hooks. The bracing wires may be fastened to the vertical support elements using the eyes on the fastening devices directly, yet may also be fastened to the eyes indirectly, for instance through the use of a carabiner hook. A carabiner hook may be opened and closed to facilitate connection.

Advantageously, the opening in a carabiner hook is typically larger, making it easier to fasten a bracing wire. Alternatively, eyelets or thimbles may be used to protect the bracing wires from abrasion at the location of the eye.

[0032] According to another aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the advantages of the invention as described herein above, there is provided a kit for applying a bracing arrangement in a greenhouse or warehouse, the kit comprising a fastening device as described above or hereinafter and a quantity of bracing wire or cable. Typically, the bracing wire or cable is provided on a spool. The bracing wire may be any type of suitable bracing wire or cable that is suitable for connection with the eye and withstand the forces in the bracing arrangement . In an embodiment, the bracing wire comprises galvanized steel with a diameter of between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm or multi-core cable of similar size. Alternatively, the bracing wire or cable may be a metal or non-metal line (e.g., comprising nylon and/or polyester, etc.), rope, strip or cord.

[0033] In an embodiment, the kit may further comprise one or more of carabiner hooks, eyelets, tensioning devices, wire clamps and press clamps.

[0034] According to yet another aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the advantages of the invention as described herein above, there is provided a greenhouse or warehouse comprising a plurality of vertical support elements and a screen device, wherein the screen device is braced to the vertical support elements using a bracing arrangement according to the invention.

[0035] According to yet another aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the advantages of the invention as described herein above, there is provided a method of forming a fastening device according to the invention, wherein the fastening device is configured to be arranged around a rectangular vertical support element. The method comprises providing a first elongate strip of sheet material with first fastening features to form a first clamp portion; bending the first elongate strip to provide a central section having a length between 50 and 80 mm, and two lateral sections each extending from opposite ends of the central section, the two lateral sections extending substantially in parallel to each other and each having a length between 60 and 200 mm; providing a second elongate strip of sheet material with second fastening features complementary to the first fastening features to form a second clamp portion; bending the second elongate strip to provide a central section having a length between 50 and 80 mm, and two lateral sections each extending from opposite ends of the central section, the two lateral sections extending substantially in parallel to each other and having a length between 60 and 200 mm; wherein the first elongate strip and/or the second elongate strip is/are provided with a cut-out portion for forming an eye, the method further comprising bending the cut-out portion away from the central section and/or one of the lateral sections. Advantageously, the fastening device may easily be formed in a production line process.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0036] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. In the drawings, like numerals designate like elements. Multiple instances of an element may each include separate letters appended to the reference number. For example, two instances of a particular element “20” may be labeled as “20a” and “20b”. The reference number may be used without an appended letter (e.g., “20") to generally refer to an unspecified instance or to all instances of that element, while the reference number will include an appended letter (e.q., “20a") to refer to a specific instance of the element.

[0037] Figure 1A schematically shows a top view of a greenhouse with a bracing arrangement according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0038] Figure 1B shows a schematic top view of the same greenhouse of Fig. 1A, with a bracing arrangement according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0039] Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a fastening device according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0040] Figure 2B shows an exploded top view of the fastening device in Fig. 2A.

[0041] Figure 2C shows a side view of the fastening device in Fig. 2A.

[0042] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a first clamp portion for use in a fastening device according to the invention.

[0043] The figures are meant for illustrative purposes only, and do not serve as restriction of the scope or the protection as laid down by the claims.

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Description of Embodiments

[0044] The following is a description of certain embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only and with reference to the figures.

[0045] Figure 1A schematically shows a partial top view of a greenhouse with a support structure 80, various components of two drive assemblies 7a, 7b for opening and closing screen cloths, and a bracing arrangement 1 for bracing certain components of the drive assemblies 74, 7b.

[9046] The greenhouse has a gable wall 84 and a side wall 85. The support structure 80 of the greenhouse comprises a plurality of vertically extending support elements 90, horizontal beams 81 that extend along a longitudinal direction X, and lattice girders 82 that extend along a transverse direction Y. The horizontal beams 81 are arranged on top of the vertically extending support elements 90. The lattice girders 82 span the opening between two adjacent horizontal beams 81a, 81b.

[0047] The screen cloth of the screen device (not shown) can be folded and unfolded along the longitudinal direction X. The screen cloths (not shown) open and close in different sections of the greenhouse, wherein each drive assembly 7a, 7b is arranged to operate the opening and closure of a screen cloth in a section. A first screen cloth can be opened to cover the space between the gable wall 84 and a first lattice girder 82a, whereas the second screen cloth can be opened to cover the space between the first lattice girder 82a and a second lattice girder 82b. The drive assemblies 7 are mounted to the lattice girders 82.

[0048] The drive assemblies 7 are schematically indicated and each comprise a motor 71, a drive shaft 72 (indicated with dashed lines) configured to be driven by the motor 71 and extending in the transverse direction Y, a plurality of drive cables (not indicated) operatively connected to the drive shaft 72 and extending in the longitudinal direction X, and a plurality of reversing wheels 74 for reversing the drive cables. Preferably the plurality of reversing wheels 74 are arranged at substantially the same level in a vertical direction (orthogonal to the XY-plane). For the sake of clarity, the drive cables are not indicated. Nevertheless, the skilled person will understand that their position directly follows from the position of the plurality of reversing wheels 74. The reversing wheels 74 can guide the drive cables in two opposite directions dependent on whether a screen is to be opened or closed. Typically, the reversing wheels are grouped in sets of reversing wheels 74a, 74b, 74c, i.e, one reversing wheel for opening a screen cloth in the first section between the gable wall 84 and the first lattice girder 82a, and a second reversing wheel directly adjacent to it for reversing a drive cable running through the second section between the first and second lattice girders 82a, 82b.

[0049] During the opening and closing of the screen cloths, forces can develop in the drive cables, which are transmitted to the support structure 80 through the sets of reversing wheels 74.

Forces in the transverse direction Y may directly be transmitted to the vertical support elements 90 through the lattice girders 82. Forces having a nonzero component in the longitudinal direction X are transmitted to the vertical support elements 90 through the bracing arrangement 1.

[0050] The bracing arrangement 1 comprises a plurality of bracing wires 11, fastening devices 3 (position indicated) and tensioning devices along the bracing wires for arranging the bracing wires 11 under tension. The bracing wires 11 are fastened to the vertical support elements 90 using the fastening devices 3, preferably positioned at a similar level to the reversing wheels 74 in the vertical direction so that all forces are exerted and compensated within a single horizontal plane of the greenhouse at which the drive assemblies 7a, 7b act. The bracing wires 11 are typically solid core galvanized steel wires with a diameter of approximately 2 mm or multi-core cables of between 2mm and 3 mm. A first bracing wire 11a is used to brace a reversing wheel of a set of reversing wheels 74a, which is arranged close to a vertical support element 90. For an optimal force transfer, the first bracing wire 11a extends in direction almost perpendicular to the lattice girder 82. A second bracing wire 11b is used to brace a reversing wheel of a second set of reversing wheels 74b that is arranged at an intermediate position of the lattice girder 82 in between two vertical support elements 90. The second bracing wire 11b extends diagonally from the lattice girder 82 towards a vertical support element 90. Each of the reversing wheels of a set of reversing wheels 74 is braced using a different bracing wire 11a, 11c and in two different directions, thereby allowing all forces to be transmitted to the support elements 90.

[0051] Figure 1B schematically shows a partial top view of the greenhouse with support structure 80 of the first embodiment in Fig. 1A. Alternatively, or in addition to the bracing arrangement 1 for the reversing wheels 74, a bracing arrangement 101 may be provided to transfer all forces associated with the rotating drive shaft 72.

[0052] The drive shaft 72 is fastened to a lattice girder 82 at a plurality of different position through a plurality of brackets 73. For the opening and closure of the screen cloth (not shown), the drive shaft 72 is rotated to drive the drive cables. This may result into forces having a nonzero component in the longitudinal direction, i.e., perpendicular to the lattice girders, such that a bracing arrangement 101 is required to guarantee the stability of the drive assembly 7. The bracing wires 111 are arranged to transmit forces from the lattice girder 82 to a vertical support element 90.

[0053] The bracing arrangement 101 comprises a plurality of bracing wires 111 and fastening devices 3. The brackets 73 are typically provided at the lattice girder 82 in a position between two vertical support elements 80a, 90b. The bracing wires 1114, 111b extend at an angle from the lattice girders 82 to transfer the forces to other vertical support elements 90c, 90d.

[0054] As Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B illustrate, some of the fastening devices 3 may be used for fastening more than one bracing wire 11,111. More precisely, some fastening devices 3 are used to brace multiple reversing wheels 74 and/or multiple brackets 73, whereas other fastening devices are used to brace both a reversing wheel 74 and a bracket 73.

[0055] Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a fastening device 3 according to a first embodiment, which is fastened around a vertical support element 90. The vertical support element

90 is a hollow rectangular profile made of steel and having a width w of 50 mm and a height h of 120 mm. The vertical support element 80 therefore has a rectangular circumference C.

[0058] The fastening device 3 has a first clamp portion 4, a second clamp portion 5, a plurality of eyes 6 and a resilient protrusion 47. The first and second clamping portion 5 comprise strips of metal with two bends to form a U-shape. The first clamp portion 4 is fastened to the second clamp portion 5 by joining the arms of the U-shape of each clamp portion and around the circumference

C of the vertical support element 90. The eyes 6 comprise mounting tabs extending from different corners of the vertical support element 90 with holes for connecting a plurality of bracing wires 11 from different angles. Each of the first clamp portion 4 and second clamp portion 5 comprises two eyes 6. The four eyes 6 are arranged both rotationally symmetric with respect to a centre of gravity of the vertical support element 90, as well as mirror symmetric. This allows bracing wires to be connected from all different directions. The eyes 6 are also arranged, aligned with the corners of the vertical support element 90 to avoid or reduce rotational forces on the fastening device 3 around an axis of the vertical support element 90

[0057] The resilient protrusion 47 comprises a resilient barb that protrudes inwards from an inner surface ofthe first clamp portion 4and engages the vertical support element 90 to provide additional friction and/or remove any play there could be due to size variations between the clamp portions 4, 5 and the circumference C.

[0058] Figure 2B shows an exploded top view of the fastening device 3 in Figure 2A. The first clamp portion 4 is provided with a plurality of first fastening features 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f, 219, on one arm of the U-shape, and a second fastening feature 22 on the other arm of the U- shape. In the depicted embodiment, the first clamp portion 4 and second clamp portion 5 are substantially identical to each other, hence also the second clamp portion 5 is provided with a plurality of first fastening features 31, and a second fastening feature 32. The first fastening features 21 of the first clamp portion 4 are complementary to the second fastening feature 32 of the second clamp portion 5. Likewise, the first fastening features 31 of the second clamp portion 5 are complementary to the first fastening feature 22 of the first clamp portion.

[0059] The first fastening features 21, 31, are formed by a plurality of slots through a substantially flat surface of the respective clamp portion 4, 5. The second fastening features 22, 32, comprise a protruding pawl that extends at an angle with respect to a substantially flat surface of the respective clamp portion 4,5 and are configured to hook into a specific slot of the plurality of slots of the other portion 4, 5. The first and second fastening features 21, 22, 31, 32 thereby cooperate as a pawl- and-slot mechanism.

[0060] The respective first and second fastening features 21, 22, 31, 32 allow for a fastening of the first clamp portion 4 to the second clamp portion 5 around the circumference C of the vertical support element 90. Due to the provision of a plurality of first fastening features 21, 31, on each of the clamp portions 4,5, the first clamp portion 4 may be fastened to the second clamp portion 5 at a plurality of different positions with respect to each other. This allows the fastening device 3 to be fastened around vertical support elements 90 of different sizes, and in particular of different heights.

Furthermore, a spacing between adjacent first fastening features 21a, 21b, 210, 21d, 21e, 21f, 21g corresponds to the range of movement allowed by the resilient protrusions 47. In this manner, In this context, it is noted that there are two resilient protrusion 47, one on either clamp portion 4, 5 so each resilient protrusion 47 need only compensate for half of the distance between slots.

[0081] As depicted in Fig. 2B, the first clamp portion 4 and second clamp portion 5 are configured to be arranged around opposite sides of a vertical support element 90 and fastened to each other using the complementary fastening features 21, 22, 31, 32. After positioning the clamp portions 4,5 around opposite sides of a vertical support element 90, the portions 4,5 may be moved towards each other using a linear displacement in order for the second fastening features 22, 32, to engage with the complementary first fastening features 21, 31. To facilitate an easy connection, each of the first and second clamp portion 4,5, comprises a guide element 23, 33. The guide element 23,33 ensures that the portions correctly align with each other and further ensures that they cannot disengage without release of the pawl 22 from the slot 21.

[0062] As the first clamp portion 4 and second clamp portion 5 are moved together, the pawl and slot mechanism acts as a ratchet, allowing one-way movement only. A spacing between adjacent slots 21 corresponds to the range of movement allowed by the resilient protrusions 47. In this manner, each time a pawl 22 drops into a next slot 21, the resilient protrusion 47 is able to relax. In this context, it is noted that there are two resilient protrusions 47, one on either clamp portion 4, 5 so each resilient protrusion 47 need only compensate for half of the distance between adjacent slots.

[0063] Fig. 2C shows a side view of the fastening device 2 after fastening the first clamp portion 4 to the second clamp portion 5. In the depicted view, the first and second clamp portions 4,5 are engaged to each other at a position wherein the sides of the first and second clamp portions 4,5 almost fully overlap. Both the first and second clamp portions have a length, extending in the height- direction of the vertical support element 90 of approximately 80 mm. The first fastening features 31 on the second clamp portion 5 are provided over a length of approximately 60 mm. Consequently, the depicted fastening device can be fastened around vertical support elements having a height varying between 80 mm and 140 mm.

[0064] The second fastening feature 22 of the first clamp portion 4 comprises a disengagement feature 24, which allows the first and second clamp portions 4,5 to be separated from each other if desired. The disengagement feature 24 is formed as an opening in the second fastening feature, the opening providing access to a screw driver. By inserting a screw driver into the opening, the second fastening feature 22 may be pulled out of the indent forming the first fastening feature 31 of the second clamp portion 5. Consequently, the clamping portions 4,5 may be removed from each other.

[0085] Fig. 3 depicts the first clamping portion 4 in the embodiment of Fig. 2A-2C in more detail.

Both clamping portions 4,5, are substantially identical and may each be formed from a strip of sheet material, wherein the sheet material is stainless steel.

[0086] To form the first clamping portion 4, a strip of sheet material is prepared , the strip has a plurality of cuts for the slots 21, two cuts for the pawl 22, two cut-out portions 45 with an opening 46 for forming the eyes 6, a cut for forming the resilient protrusion 47, and extended edges for forming the guide elements 23. Advantageously, such preparational steps may be done in advance and consecutively.

[0067] After preparing the sheet material, the strip is bent twice over an angle of substantially 90 degrees such that the first clamp portion 4 has a middle section 41, a first side section 42, and a second side section 43. The two side sections 42,43 extend substantially in parallel to each other and therefore can be easily arranged around a substantially rectangular vertical support element 90.

[9088] The middle section 41 comprises a first eye 6a and a second eye 6b, which are formed by bending the two cut-out portions 45a, 45b of the middle section 41 towards a suitable angle, for example, 45 degrees. The cut-out portions 45a, 45b are each provided with a circular opening 46a, 46b having a diameter of approximately 5 mm. This is sufficiently large for the passage of most conventionally used bracing wires 11. The middle section 41 further comprises the resilient protrusion 47, which is also formed as a cut-out portion of the middle section 41 yet bent away from the middle section 41 to protrude from a main plane wherein the substantially flat middle section 41 extends, and in a direction opposite to the cut-out portions 45 forming the eyes 6a, 6b. Finally, the guide elements 23a, 23b, may be formed by bending the edges of the side section 43 carrying the second fastening feature 22 to form a guiding channel. It will be understood by the skilled person that the order wherein these steps are carried out may be different in different embodiments of the method for forming a clamping portion and/or fastening device according to the invention.

[0069] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that alternative and equivalent embodiments of the invention can be conceived and reduced to practice. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

P62013463NL 14 Conclusions

1. A fastening apparatus for fastening a brace wire to a vertical support member in a greenhouse or storehouse, the apparatus comprising: a clamping member adapted to be mounted about the periphery of the vertical support member, the clamping member including a first clamping portion and a second clamping portion and adapted to be mounted on opposite sides of the vertical support member, the first clamping portion and the second clamping portion including complementary fastening features for securing the first clamping portion to the second clamping portion about the periphery of the vertical support member, the apparatus further comprising: an eye extending from the clamping member for connecting the brace wire thereto.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vertical support member has a substantially rectangular cross-section, the clamping member adapted to be secured around a substantially rectangular perimeter of the vertical support member.

The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping member abuts the periphery of the vertical support member over substantially the entire periphery.

4. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of eyes for attaching a plurality of brace wires thereto.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the plurality of eyes are arranged symmetrically with respect to the vertical support element, in particular wherein the plurality of eyes are mirror-symmetric with respect to a cross-section of the vertical support element and/or rotationally symmetric with respect to a vertical central axis of the vertical support element.

6. The device according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or plurality of eyes has/have an opening having a substantially round shape with a diameter between 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm or an oval shape with a diameter between 2.5 mm and

5.0 mm along the minor axis of the opening.

7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the fastening features are configured to fasten the first clamping portion to the second clamping portion at a plurality of different positions relative to each other.

8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping element is arranged to enclose a substantially rectangular perimeter of a rectangular vertical support element having a fixed width and height, the clamping element being variable over a height range of at least 40 mm, preferably at least 60 mm.

9. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the complementary fastening features for securing the first clamping portion to the second clamping portion are integrally formed with the respective portions.

10. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the eye or each of the plurality of eyes is integrally formed with the first clamping portion and/or the second clamping portion.

The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the complementary securing features for securing the first clamping portion to the second clamping portion comprise a pin-and-hole mechanism.

12. The apparatus of any preceding claim further comprising a release feature for releasing the first clamping portion from the second clamping portion.

13. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first clamping portion and the second clamping portion are each formed from a single sheet of metal.

The device of any preceding claim, wherein the fastening device is made of stainless steel.

15. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the first clamping portion is substantially identical to the second clamping portion.

16. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a resilient protrusion on a surface of the first clamping portion and/or second clamping portion, the resilient protrusion adapted to contact an outer peripheral surface of the vertical support member.

17. A bracing device for a screening device in a greenhouse or warehouse comprising a plurality of bracing wires and/or cables and a plurality of fastening devices according to any of the preceding claims.

18. The strut assembly of claim 17 further comprising a plurality of tensioning devices.

19. The strut assembly of claim 17 or 18 further comprising a plurality of carabiners.

20. A kit for applying a bracing device in a greenhouse or warehouse, the kit comprising a fastening device according to any of the preceding claims and a quantity of bracing wire or cable.

21. A greenhouse or greenhouse comprising a plurality of vertical support members and a screening device, the screening device being braced to the vertical support members using a bracing device according to any of claims 17 to 19.

22. A method of manufacturing a fastening device according to any of claims 1 to 16, the fastening device being adapted to be applied about a rectangular vertical support member, the method comprising: providing a first elongated strip of sheet material having first fastening features to form a first clamping portion; bending the first elongated strip to provide a central portion having a length between 50 mm and 80 mm and two side portions, each extending from opposite ends of the central portion, the two side portions extending substantially parallel to each other and each having a length between 60 and 200 mm, preferably between 80 and 150 mm; providing a second elongated strip of sheet material having second fastening features complementary to the first fastening features to form a second clamping portion; bending the second elongated strip to provide a central portion having a length of between 50 and 80 mm and two side portions each extending from opposite ends of the central portion, the two side portions extending substantially parallel to each other and each having a length of between 60 and 200 mm, preferably between 80 and 150 mm; wherein the first elongated strip and/or the second elongated strip is/are provided with a cut-out portion for forming an eye, the method further comprising: bending the cut-out portion away from the central portion and/or the side portions to form the eye.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first and second elongate strips are identical to each other and each has both first and second fastening features that are complementary to each other.